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The Ladies Who Lunch #1
The Bottom Line
When life gets tough and love is hard to find, four friends take their troubles to lunch. Surviving a failed marriage and an illness that almost takes her life, high school teacher Mallory Hamilton needs the Ladies Who Lunch more than ever . . . After a year of upheaval, Mallory has had her fill of change-with one exception. Her house is a disaster, and she wants it fixed. Hiring a contractor to finish the projects her ex-husband started will help her banish the past so she can return to the life she had before everything went awry. But her contractor is sexy, sweet, and single, which threatens the peaceful, solitary life Mallory has planned for herself.Ben Carpenter has had a hard time raising his daughter without his ex-wife's help. His new client's projects will give him the extra income he needs, not to mention afternoons alone with a gorgeous woman. Though their attraction is undeniable, Ben sees the fear and pain hiding in Mallory's beautiful eyes. But how can he help her if she won't let him in? Ben can fix just about anything-but can he fix Mallory's broken heart?Word 75,000-85,000
338 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2014
15 people are currently reading
1443 people want to read
About the author
Sandy James
40 books271 followersSandy lives in a quiet suburb of Indianapolis and is a high school psychology teacher. She is published through Grand Central Forever Yours and Carina Press as well as indie-published. An Amazon #1 Bestseller many times, she has won numerous awards, including two HOLT Medallions.
Please visit her website at http://sandyjames.com for more information or find her on Twitter (https://twitter.com/sandyjamesbooks) or Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/sandyjamesbooks) Represented by Danielle Egan-Miller of Browne & Miller Literary.
Please visit her website at http://sandyjames.com for more information or find her on Twitter (https://twitter.com/sandyjamesbooks) or Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/sandyjamesbooks) Represented by Danielle Egan-Miller of Browne & Miller Literary.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
November 25, 2013
Sandy and I are critique partners, so I get to see all her books in advance of publication. The Ladies Who Lunch are a group of friends who, together, handle all the joy and tragedies that life hands to them. The bottom line is a good story about a woman struggling with tragedy who discovers that there's always a second chance at love. Lovely story!
June 4, 2014
Click Banner to enter Kindle and Ebook Giveaway 6/4-11-2014
Looking for a sweet and tender romance, The Bottom Line will hit the spot.
Highlighting a group of teachers that lunch together and stick together through thick in thin, this story gives us a strong core group of characters that you'd like to call friends.
This is Mallory and Ben's story. Mallory is a breast cancer survivor who hires Ben Carpenter, single dad and handy man. Both characters have emotional / relationship baggage that interferes with their budding attraction.
The Bottom Line oozed real. This could be your neighbor or your friend, making the story completely relatable. I laughed and even felt that clutching in my chest with the characters heart break.
The Bottom Line was a wonderfully enjoyable read, leaving me with smile on my face.
I can't wait to see what happens next with the ladies who lunch. Definitely a series worth following.
I received this ARC copy of The Bottom Line from Forever (Grand Central Publishing)in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication May 6, 2014.
Series: The Ladies Who Lunch
Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: Forever Yours
Publication Date: May 6, 2014
ISBN-10: 1455575224
Rating: 4 Stars
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Find this book on: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
August 16, 2014
After suffering from series of bad-lucks, we often tend to shut the doors of our tender heart, hoping that we'll never ever open that door. In this novel, The Bottom Line (The Ladies Who Lunch #1), the author, Sandy James, weaves a oh-so-romantic story between two bad-luck struck persons, Mallory and Ben, and takes us in a journey from how-life-can-be cruel-to-how-life-can-be-amazing!
First, a token of thanks to the author, Sandy James, for providing me with a copy of her book in exchange for an honest review.
Mallory, a teacher, has seen all kinds of bad lucks in her life, from getting diagnosed with breast cancer to getting divorced. But she managed to survive each and every bad-events of her life, so she decides to discuss and share all her problems with a group of co-teachers during the lunch break. After her divorce, her house is a total mess, so she calls for a handy man, Ben (not to mention his hot, charming, attractive looks!!) Soon both falls for each other, but Mallory holds back her feelings scared that she might get heart-broken one more time, and guessing Mallory's problem, Ben tries to support her, but is not much sure of his actions, since he too has failed as a husband. But what is life, if you've not travelled on some bumpy roads? Find out for yourself that after all their issues and problems, how they choose to hold on to each other forever!
Firstly, the author has made the storyline of this novel into such a captivating one, it becomes hard to put down, and once you've started reading it. The characters are completely well-fitting and well-developed, like Mallory, with all her strengths and courage makes her a very strong woman and Ben, with all his pain and love for his only daughter, makes him a very decent guy. Their chemistry is mind-blowingly hot and cute at the same time.
So if you love sweet romance, then definitely try this touching and heart warming love-story of Ben and Mallory.
First, a token of thanks to the author, Sandy James, for providing me with a copy of her book in exchange for an honest review.
Mallory, a teacher, has seen all kinds of bad lucks in her life, from getting diagnosed with breast cancer to getting divorced. But she managed to survive each and every bad-events of her life, so she decides to discuss and share all her problems with a group of co-teachers during the lunch break. After her divorce, her house is a total mess, so she calls for a handy man, Ben (not to mention his hot, charming, attractive looks!!) Soon both falls for each other, but Mallory holds back her feelings scared that she might get heart-broken one more time, and guessing Mallory's problem, Ben tries to support her, but is not much sure of his actions, since he too has failed as a husband. But what is life, if you've not travelled on some bumpy roads? Find out for yourself that after all their issues and problems, how they choose to hold on to each other forever!
Firstly, the author has made the storyline of this novel into such a captivating one, it becomes hard to put down, and once you've started reading it. The characters are completely well-fitting and well-developed, like Mallory, with all her strengths and courage makes her a very strong woman and Ben, with all his pain and love for his only daughter, makes him a very decent guy. Their chemistry is mind-blowingly hot and cute at the same time.
So if you love sweet romance, then definitely try this touching and heart warming love-story of Ben and Mallory.
May 20, 2014
I was absolutely lost in this amazingly realistic contemporary romance. Sandy James has a gift for taking love, adding in contemporary twists and rubs, deadly serious topics and coming up with a completely engaging, warm story of love, second chances and the gift of loyal friends. Life deals out the cards, you play what you’re dealt, win or lose and sometimes only the support of good friends keeps you afloat. For Mallory Hamilton, the Ladies Who Lunch, her nearest and dearest friends who have all had tough times, come together to support each other in both good times and bad. Mallory has had a lot of bad lately and she is struggling to pick up the shards of her life and move on.
Deciding her home needs some serious work, she hires Ben Carpenter, yep, Ben Carpenter, the carpenter! As he repairs her home, he also repairs her heart and brings her joy. What Mallory doesn’t realize is that with all the baggage Ben carries, she, too is a balm to his soul. Will they each take a chance on love and life again?
The Bottom Line by the talented Sandy James is an uplifting read full of smiles, tears and the joy of finding someone who accepts you for who you are, period. Sandy even added some good sides to the evil ex-wife, while imbuing Mallory with a strong sense of self in almost every instance. Ben is warm and caring, yet virile and manly, as his past has had its share of ugliness, too.
Light for the most part, Sandy is able to add extremely serious issues without making this read a maudlin tale. Perfect for summer reading, relaxing into a great escape, that has you rooting for the heroes all the way.
I received this copy from Forever Yours in exchange for my honest review.
Series: The Ladies Who Lunch - Book 1
Publication Date: May 6, 2014
Publisher: Forever Yours
ISBN-10: 1455575224
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Paperback: 336 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Deciding her home needs some serious work, she hires Ben Carpenter, yep, Ben Carpenter, the carpenter! As he repairs her home, he also repairs her heart and brings her joy. What Mallory doesn’t realize is that with all the baggage Ben carries, she, too is a balm to his soul. Will they each take a chance on love and life again?
The Bottom Line by the talented Sandy James is an uplifting read full of smiles, tears and the joy of finding someone who accepts you for who you are, period. Sandy even added some good sides to the evil ex-wife, while imbuing Mallory with a strong sense of self in almost every instance. Ben is warm and caring, yet virile and manly, as his past has had its share of ugliness, too.
Light for the most part, Sandy is able to add extremely serious issues without making this read a maudlin tale. Perfect for summer reading, relaxing into a great escape, that has you rooting for the heroes all the way.
I received this copy from Forever Yours in exchange for my honest review.
Series: The Ladies Who Lunch - Book 1
Publication Date: May 6, 2014
Publisher: Forever Yours
ISBN-10: 1455575224
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Paperback: 336 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
August 15, 2022
I was debating how to classify this one but in the end I'm going with 2.4
There are good enough elements and the idea of this story (and series) is good, but in the end I just don't feel motivated to keep going.
The characters fell in love too quickly, especially considering the issues they both had in the past with other relationships. Also, for busy people with work and such, a lot of time is spend on so many other things, we don't have enough focus on the elements I thought would be key for this plot.
This is the second book by the author I try, this one in a different series, but both have a similar execution. Consistent, sure, but not appealing to me after all.
There are good enough elements and the idea of this story (and series) is good, but in the end I just don't feel motivated to keep going.
The characters fell in love too quickly, especially considering the issues they both had in the past with other relationships. Also, for busy people with work and such, a lot of time is spend on so many other things, we don't have enough focus on the elements I thought would be key for this plot.
This is the second book by the author I try, this one in a different series, but both have a similar execution. Consistent, sure, but not appealing to me after all.
November 25, 2013
As one of Sandy's critique partners, I get to see these stories before anyone else! This is a well-written book with engaging characters and a great happy ever after. You can't go wrong with this one!
July 31, 2014
What...an incredible surprise! I won a copy of the Bottom Line a little bit back from LilyElement and on a lark picked it up this afternoon and.... proceeded to read the entire thing in pretty much one sitting. I flipping LOVED this book. The Bottom Line was a truly lovely romance and a touching personal journey that sparked off as Ben's hired on to fix up Mallory's mess of a house.
The quick of it is that Mallory has been going through a lot of struggles. Her husband left her amid a medical scare--yes he is the scum of the earth!--and she's finally ready to start living again and make some changes. Starting with her house that's a DIY disaster thanks to her louse of an ex. And in to her life comes one seriously hunky contractor who winds up fixing more than her broken home. Girly-effing-sigh.
Mallory is a teacher and just a great heroine. She's sweet and strong and has a beauty about her--despite not always seeing it herself--and is just a lovely woman through and through. She's a cancer survivor and has some insecurities and fears because of it that were so realistic, understandable and just heartbreaking. Watching her overcome and deal with them was just gut wrenching and had me near tears more than once.
And Ben. This man is a catch! Solid, reliable, patient and talented. He's a single parent and really cherishes his daughter. He's not the most well off emotionally--from a horrid ex--or financially but he doesn't let it keep him down, ya know? He does what he needs to do to create a stable life for his daughter who has been so hurt by her mother time and time again. And damn that totally made me go all girly. I love a single daddy like that.
"Maybe I could drive you home? You won't even have to give me directions."
She didn't rise to his teasing this time, which made him even more convinced he'd done something wrong. The problem was he didn't have a clue what it was.
Mallory and Ben were amazing together. They had that instant chemistry but things didn't go zero to 60 in the blink of an eye. And I really appreciated that. Both have been dealt hard blows by love and needed time to get to know each other as he worked on her house over a number of weeks and months. To slowly work up to their first date and venture into intimacy. The sexual tension between them was shiver-worthy and the little things they started doing--without even realizing--for each other so incredibly sweet (like him cooking her dinner when he knew she was going to have an exhausting day at work). One of my favorite things about them was that they were both upfront and blunt about things. They agreed to always tell the truth and what they were thinking and that made for a great experience. Sometimes a little awkward and edgy but worth it in the end. And when things got heated they were very steamy. Mallory is not shy in anyway and actually likes to be in the drives seat which was kinda fun to watch play out.
From James' soothing and comforting voice to the characters to the emotional upheaval Mal and Ben experience to the hot lovin and gentle touches as two people start to heal from some serious damage their exes had inflicted on them The Bottom Line was just a phenomenal read.
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
The quick of it is that Mallory has been going through a lot of struggles. Her husband left her amid a medical scare--yes he is the scum of the earth!--and she's finally ready to start living again and make some changes. Starting with her house that's a DIY disaster thanks to her louse of an ex. And in to her life comes one seriously hunky contractor who winds up fixing more than her broken home. Girly-effing-sigh.
Mallory is a teacher and just a great heroine. She's sweet and strong and has a beauty about her--despite not always seeing it herself--and is just a lovely woman through and through. She's a cancer survivor and has some insecurities and fears because of it that were so realistic, understandable and just heartbreaking. Watching her overcome and deal with them was just gut wrenching and had me near tears more than once.
And Ben. This man is a catch! Solid, reliable, patient and talented. He's a single parent and really cherishes his daughter. He's not the most well off emotionally--from a horrid ex--or financially but he doesn't let it keep him down, ya know? He does what he needs to do to create a stable life for his daughter who has been so hurt by her mother time and time again. And damn that totally made me go all girly. I love a single daddy like that.
"Maybe I could drive you home? You won't even have to give me directions."
She didn't rise to his teasing this time, which made him even more convinced he'd done something wrong. The problem was he didn't have a clue what it was.
"No thanks, I drove myself."
"Then let me walk you to your car."
"You don't have to do that. This is a mixer, remember?" She shooed him away with the back of her hand. "Go mix."
"I've mixed with the only woman I care to mix with."
At least Mallory smiled. "That sounded kinda dirty."
A small crack in the wall. He'd try his best to crawl though. "Only kinda dirty? I'll have to try harder next time."
Mallory and Ben were amazing together. They had that instant chemistry but things didn't go zero to 60 in the blink of an eye. And I really appreciated that. Both have been dealt hard blows by love and needed time to get to know each other as he worked on her house over a number of weeks and months. To slowly work up to their first date and venture into intimacy. The sexual tension between them was shiver-worthy and the little things they started doing--without even realizing--for each other so incredibly sweet (like him cooking her dinner when he knew she was going to have an exhausting day at work). One of my favorite things about them was that they were both upfront and blunt about things. They agreed to always tell the truth and what they were thinking and that made for a great experience. Sometimes a little awkward and edgy but worth it in the end. And when things got heated they were very steamy. Mallory is not shy in anyway and actually likes to be in the drives seat which was kinda fun to watch play out.
From James' soothing and comforting voice to the characters to the emotional upheaval Mal and Ben experience to the hot lovin and gentle touches as two people start to heal from some serious damage their exes had inflicted on them The Bottom Line was just a phenomenal read.
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
April 24, 2014
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 6, 2014
When life gets tough and love is hard to find, four friends take their troubles to lunch. Surviving a failed marriage and an illness that almost takes her life, high school teacher Mallory Hamilton needs the Ladies Who Lunch more than ever . . .
After a year of upheaval, Mallory has had her fill of change—with one exception. Her house is a disaster, and she wants it fixed. Hiring a contractor to finish the projects her ex-husband started will help her banish the past so she can return to the life she had before everything went awry. But her contractor is sexy, sweet, and single, which threatens the peaceful, solitary life Mallory has planned for herself.
Ben Carpenter has had a hard time raising his daughter without his ex-wife’s help. His new client’s projects will give him the extra income he needs, not to mention afternoons alone with a gorgeous woman. Though their attraction is undeniable, Ben sees the fear and pain hiding in Mallory’s beautiful eyes. But how can he help her if she won’t let him in? Ben can fix just about anything—but can he fix Mallory’s broken heart?
REVIEW: THE BOTTOM LINE is the first instalment in Sandy James’s contemporary, romance series focusing on a group of female teachers who meet every day at lunch to discuss life, love and growing old. This is Mallory and Ben’s storyline-one the focuses on a second chance at love for both but not before heartbreak and misunderstanding push the couple apart.
Sandy James writes an engaging story where one woman has faced a life altering situation and survived. Hoping for a new direction, she hires local contractor Ben Carpenter to remodel her house and in doing so finds that she begins to remodel her life. Ben and Mallory are immediately attracted to one another but Mallory is hiding a secret-one that even many of her fellow colleagues are unaware-and it is a secret she fears will push Ben away when the truth is revealed.
This is a friends to lovers storyline where second chances are complicated when past issues are left unresolved. Mallory’s private and personal ‘problems’ drive a major portion of the storyline and in this there is a constant struggle about decisions, revelations and between friends. Although her friends mean well and are very over protective, there comes a time when everyone must make their first solo venture into the world of dating and love. The sexual tension between Mallory and Ben is palpable; their love making is sensual, romantic and not over the top.
The secondary characters are colorful and become our heroine’s constant source of support and turmoil. The world building focuses on the friends and colleagues who gather each day for lunch and on weekends at the local church singles dance.
THE BOTTOM LINE is a compelling story about one woman’s struggle and the decisions she must make with regards to her future. It is a story where past betrayals are a constant reminder and sometimes the present may be all you have. It is also a story about two people who have been given a second chance-for love and life-and their hopes that a future together will be loving and long.
Copy supplied by the author.
www.thereadingcafe.com
When life gets tough and love is hard to find, four friends take their troubles to lunch. Surviving a failed marriage and an illness that almost takes her life, high school teacher Mallory Hamilton needs the Ladies Who Lunch more than ever . . .
After a year of upheaval, Mallory has had her fill of change—with one exception. Her house is a disaster, and she wants it fixed. Hiring a contractor to finish the projects her ex-husband started will help her banish the past so she can return to the life she had before everything went awry. But her contractor is sexy, sweet, and single, which threatens the peaceful, solitary life Mallory has planned for herself.
Ben Carpenter has had a hard time raising his daughter without his ex-wife’s help. His new client’s projects will give him the extra income he needs, not to mention afternoons alone with a gorgeous woman. Though their attraction is undeniable, Ben sees the fear and pain hiding in Mallory’s beautiful eyes. But how can he help her if she won’t let him in? Ben can fix just about anything—but can he fix Mallory’s broken heart?
REVIEW: THE BOTTOM LINE is the first instalment in Sandy James’s contemporary, romance series focusing on a group of female teachers who meet every day at lunch to discuss life, love and growing old. This is Mallory and Ben’s storyline-one the focuses on a second chance at love for both but not before heartbreak and misunderstanding push the couple apart.
Sandy James writes an engaging story where one woman has faced a life altering situation and survived. Hoping for a new direction, she hires local contractor Ben Carpenter to remodel her house and in doing so finds that she begins to remodel her life. Ben and Mallory are immediately attracted to one another but Mallory is hiding a secret-one that even many of her fellow colleagues are unaware-and it is a secret she fears will push Ben away when the truth is revealed.
This is a friends to lovers storyline where second chances are complicated when past issues are left unresolved. Mallory’s private and personal ‘problems’ drive a major portion of the storyline and in this there is a constant struggle about decisions, revelations and between friends. Although her friends mean well and are very over protective, there comes a time when everyone must make their first solo venture into the world of dating and love. The sexual tension between Mallory and Ben is palpable; their love making is sensual, romantic and not over the top.
The secondary characters are colorful and become our heroine’s constant source of support and turmoil. The world building focuses on the friends and colleagues who gather each day for lunch and on weekends at the local church singles dance.
THE BOTTOM LINE is a compelling story about one woman’s struggle and the decisions she must make with regards to her future. It is a story where past betrayals are a constant reminder and sometimes the present may be all you have. It is also a story about two people who have been given a second chance-for love and life-and their hopes that a future together will be loving and long.
Copy supplied by the author.
www.thereadingcafe.com
September 10, 2014
Mallory Hamilton, is a teacher that is a breast cancer survivor. Her ex-husband ditched her as soon as he heard she had cancer, so she's not really in the market for a relationship. Trying to move on with her life and get rid of bad memories of a failed marriage; Mallory decides to hire a carpenter to make the house her own. I admired Mallory's character, she faced having cancer and a scumbag ex-husband that ditched her as soon as times got tough. The Bottom Line is based after the fact, so I was glad to see that she didn't sit and pout about it, she decided to make her life her own and change things to what she wanted.
Ben Carpenter, is a single Dad that is a carpenter. Yes, he's a carpenter and his last name is Carpenter. He doesn't find that humorous, but I do. He takes Mallory as a client and manages to not only repair her house, but also her heart. Though there are a few bumps along the way. Ben is a really straight forward guy, he has no issue saying what he feels and his daughter is the same way. He was a good fit for Mallory, she needed someone like that since her ex-husband left her not only doubting men, but also herself.
The Bottom Line is an emotional read that tugs at the heartstrings. I connected with Mallory, and was glad to see that the Ladies that Lunch, several of her co-workers, all had her back through her journey. I've enjoyed all of the books I've read by Sandy James and The Bottom Line is no exception, so I highly recommend her work. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series, Signed, Sealed, Delivered is out on July 1st, 2014!
Ben Carpenter, is a single Dad that is a carpenter. Yes, he's a carpenter and his last name is Carpenter. He doesn't find that humorous, but I do. He takes Mallory as a client and manages to not only repair her house, but also her heart. Though there are a few bumps along the way. Ben is a really straight forward guy, he has no issue saying what he feels and his daughter is the same way. He was a good fit for Mallory, she needed someone like that since her ex-husband left her not only doubting men, but also herself.
The Bottom Line is an emotional read that tugs at the heartstrings. I connected with Mallory, and was glad to see that the Ladies that Lunch, several of her co-workers, all had her back through her journey. I've enjoyed all of the books I've read by Sandy James and The Bottom Line is no exception, so I highly recommend her work. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series, Signed, Sealed, Delivered is out on July 1st, 2014!
July 20, 2014
Very realistic love story about a lady who thought she would never find love again. The difficult subject matter was handled perfectly. The characters were great and very believable. I would definitely read more from this author. Maybe I will look into the 2nd book of this series.
I received this book as a first reads giveaway.
I received this book as a first reads giveaway.
May 22, 2014
http://openbooksociety.com/article/th...
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
I found this story to be thoroughly delightful. Early on it was spelled out very well how Mallory was beginning to feel:
“I was rattled by the kiss. At that moment, Mallory was a hell of a lot more than rattled. She was in lust so deep, she had to force herself not to crawl on his lap and lace her fingers through his hair.”
Ben was a classy guy throughout. When he found out Mal’s big secret (not gonna tell ya :) !!!), he did not run away, but came back the next day and began courting Mallory again. While Mallory was deciding whether she should give him another chance and start a relationship…..she had an epiphany …
“And screw a duck if she didn’t suddenly realize she already cared for him.”
One example where we see what Ben’s intentions are from the start:
“As much as he wanted her, he had to slow down. Not only did she need to know that he likes her, the whole package of Mallory, he also needed to take it at a more relaxed pace. The woman needed time, and he’d be sure she got it. He had no intention of being her rebound guy.”
All I can say is that this definitely endeared him to me as a reader!!!!
I must say, that at least temporarily, I was disappointed in Ben for what appeared to be him running away in the face of adversity. At a time when his new girlfriend needed him, he couldn’t handle it (or could he? Leaving you with too little information so as to not include a spoiler). The author depicted the adage about communication being vital in any relationship very well. When Ben and Mallory did not communicate fully, we saw life become bleak for Mallory, Ben and Ben’s daughter Amber. Now as all good love stories tend to go, after a period of silence between Ben and Mallory, communication is restored. I LOVED Ben’s creativeness and truly thoughtful way of apologizing. I expect Mallory did as well!
I was pleasantly surprised in how the introduction of a child to a new relationship was told. Nothing un-torrid occurred when Amber was around. Wholesome family values seemed to rule Ben’s choices, especially in how they would affect his child. I appreciated Ben’s choices and his respect for his daughter’s feelings and that Amber was always number 1, even before his feelings for Mallory.
Yet….the story is anything but “wholesome” when describing the intimate part of Mallory and Ben’s relationship. The steamy scenes were steamy and the loving “ahhh” moments were romantic. All in all, a delightful, easy to read love story. It had enough other sub-stories going on to keep it interesting. I expect that for the next stories in the series, we will get more of the backstory of each of the “Ladies Who Lunch” club members (teachers who have worked together for years). I look forward to further reads from this series.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
I found this story to be thoroughly delightful. Early on it was spelled out very well how Mallory was beginning to feel:
“I was rattled by the kiss. At that moment, Mallory was a hell of a lot more than rattled. She was in lust so deep, she had to force herself not to crawl on his lap and lace her fingers through his hair.”
Ben was a classy guy throughout. When he found out Mal’s big secret (not gonna tell ya :) !!!), he did not run away, but came back the next day and began courting Mallory again. While Mallory was deciding whether she should give him another chance and start a relationship…..she had an epiphany …
“And screw a duck if she didn’t suddenly realize she already cared for him.”
One example where we see what Ben’s intentions are from the start:
“As much as he wanted her, he had to slow down. Not only did she need to know that he likes her, the whole package of Mallory, he also needed to take it at a more relaxed pace. The woman needed time, and he’d be sure she got it. He had no intention of being her rebound guy.”
All I can say is that this definitely endeared him to me as a reader!!!!
I must say, that at least temporarily, I was disappointed in Ben for what appeared to be him running away in the face of adversity. At a time when his new girlfriend needed him, he couldn’t handle it (or could he? Leaving you with too little information so as to not include a spoiler). The author depicted the adage about communication being vital in any relationship very well. When Ben and Mallory did not communicate fully, we saw life become bleak for Mallory, Ben and Ben’s daughter Amber. Now as all good love stories tend to go, after a period of silence between Ben and Mallory, communication is restored. I LOVED Ben’s creativeness and truly thoughtful way of apologizing. I expect Mallory did as well!
I was pleasantly surprised in how the introduction of a child to a new relationship was told. Nothing un-torrid occurred when Amber was around. Wholesome family values seemed to rule Ben’s choices, especially in how they would affect his child. I appreciated Ben’s choices and his respect for his daughter’s feelings and that Amber was always number 1, even before his feelings for Mallory.
Yet….the story is anything but “wholesome” when describing the intimate part of Mallory and Ben’s relationship. The steamy scenes were steamy and the loving “ahhh” moments were romantic. All in all, a delightful, easy to read love story. It had enough other sub-stories going on to keep it interesting. I expect that for the next stories in the series, we will get more of the backstory of each of the “Ladies Who Lunch” club members (teachers who have worked together for years). I look forward to further reads from this series.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
May 31, 2014
The Bottom Line is a great title. It's what attracted me to the book itself. Some book titles are overly long, some basically tell you the story and some make no sense even after you've read it. But this title is perfect for this book. It's about the cost of rebuilding a house as well as your heart and life. But it's also about how much of yourself you're willing to give and what you're willing to sacrifice for the one you love. It's actually a pretty simple story. A story about second chances and falling in love. But it has a great title.
Mallory Hamilton has had a terrible year. After being left by her husband just days after receiving some life changing news, she's finally ready and able to get her life back on track. Her first order of business is to get her falling-down-around-her house renovated. Its rundown looks are symbolic of her past struggles and now is the time to get it fixed. Ben Carpenter is a single dad with a deadbeat ex-wife and the job of making Mallory's home liveable. It's exactly what he needs. It will bring in the money he's sorely missing but it'll also introduce him to a woman unlike any other he's met. He can tell she's been hurt by life and he can't help but be drawn to her courage, her strength and her kindness. Ben wants to help Mallory and in doing that, he's going to fix more than just her house.
This was a really sweet story. There's not much more than meets the eye when it comes to Ben. He's a handsome and kind single father. He loves his daughter and the relationship between the two of them is nice. It's hard to really say more than that because their story doesn't really go much deeper. The most memorable thing about him is his name because he's a carpenter (technically contractor and that's the joke) whose name is Carpenter. It gave me a mild chuckle because there was a Math teacher at my school whose name was Miss Figures and funny names are...funny. Mallory, on the other hand, is a good character. Her battles aren't immediately revealed although it's easy to see where her story is headed if you're paying attention. Her friends - the Ladies That Lunch, the linchpins of the series - fell a little flat for me. I would have liked more interaction between the four women, a deeper explanation of their relationship. Maybe Jules' book will give me more of them together. But the central story of Ben and Mallory together is a good one and the story of her "issues" (I'm trying hard not to spoil anything) and how she dealt with, and overcame, them is fantastic. It's not a stressful story, just a simple story of a boy meeting a girl, falling in love and learning how to deal with what life throws at them. I'd like to read more stories like this. And that's the bottom line.
This is the first book in the Ladies That Lunch series and can be read as a standalone book, no cliffhanger.
~ Beth, 4 stars
Mallory Hamilton has had a terrible year. After being left by her husband just days after receiving some life changing news, she's finally ready and able to get her life back on track. Her first order of business is to get her falling-down-around-her house renovated. Its rundown looks are symbolic of her past struggles and now is the time to get it fixed. Ben Carpenter is a single dad with a deadbeat ex-wife and the job of making Mallory's home liveable. It's exactly what he needs. It will bring in the money he's sorely missing but it'll also introduce him to a woman unlike any other he's met. He can tell she's been hurt by life and he can't help but be drawn to her courage, her strength and her kindness. Ben wants to help Mallory and in doing that, he's going to fix more than just her house.
This was a really sweet story. There's not much more than meets the eye when it comes to Ben. He's a handsome and kind single father. He loves his daughter and the relationship between the two of them is nice. It's hard to really say more than that because their story doesn't really go much deeper. The most memorable thing about him is his name because he's a carpenter (technically contractor and that's the joke) whose name is Carpenter. It gave me a mild chuckle because there was a Math teacher at my school whose name was Miss Figures and funny names are...funny. Mallory, on the other hand, is a good character. Her battles aren't immediately revealed although it's easy to see where her story is headed if you're paying attention. Her friends - the Ladies That Lunch, the linchpins of the series - fell a little flat for me. I would have liked more interaction between the four women, a deeper explanation of their relationship. Maybe Jules' book will give me more of them together. But the central story of Ben and Mallory together is a good one and the story of her "issues" (I'm trying hard not to spoil anything) and how she dealt with, and overcame, them is fantastic. It's not a stressful story, just a simple story of a boy meeting a girl, falling in love and learning how to deal with what life throws at them. I'd like to read more stories like this. And that's the bottom line.
This is the first book in the Ladies That Lunch series and can be read as a standalone book, no cliffhanger.
~ Beth, 4 stars
May 8, 2014
The Bottom Line is an extremely heartwarming and sometimes poignant second chance at love novel. In this first installment of Sandy James' The Ladies Who Lunch series starring four close friends who support one another through all of life's ups and downs, Mallory Hamilton unexpectedly finds love with Ben Carpenter, the contractor she hires to complete some renovations on her house.
Getting her life back on track after a difficult year, Mallory is determined to finish some long overdue projects around the house but she is not exactly a handywoman. Recommended by a mutual acquaintance, she hires Ben, a single dad who is struggling to get back on his feet financially while raising his daughter Amber. Mallory and Ben are surprised by their mutual attraction but über private Mallory is keeping a secret that might be a deal breaker for their burgeoning romance.
Mallory and Ben's relationship slowly transforms from friends to lovers. Ben is very open about his personal life and his primary concern is for Amber, and what impact a romance with Mallory will have on her. Mallory and Ben both agree to always be honest with each other, but Mallory is a very private person and revealing her past takes time and patience. Once all of their issues are finally out in the open, the progression of their relationship is fairly smooth with only a few bumps along the way. However a major crisis brings all of their hidden fears to the surface and a misunderstanding threatens their future.
Mallory and Ben's relationship is very sweet but there is also an incredible amount of chemistry between them. They take their time getting to know each other and their honesty about their hopes and fears is very refreshing. The care that Ben takes when to introducing Amber to Mallory reinforces all of the things that make him such a warm and caring man. Mallory and Amber connect through shared interests and they soon form a close bond.
The conflict between Mallory and Ben comes as a shock given how supportive Ben has been. A major misunderstanding tears them apart and Mallory's close friends, Jules, Dani and Beth quickly close ranks around her. While their hearts are in the right place, this over protectiveness creates even more tension between Mallory and Ben but help for the estranged couple arrives from a very surprising source and Ben pulls out all the stops to win her back.
The Bottom Line has an endearing storyline and a lovely cast of charming characters. All of the relationships and issues are realistically depicted and the plot is refreshingly unique. An enjoyable introduction to Sandy James' The Ladies Who Lunch series that is sure to be enjoyed by fans of contemporary romances.
Getting her life back on track after a difficult year, Mallory is determined to finish some long overdue projects around the house but she is not exactly a handywoman. Recommended by a mutual acquaintance, she hires Ben, a single dad who is struggling to get back on his feet financially while raising his daughter Amber. Mallory and Ben are surprised by their mutual attraction but über private Mallory is keeping a secret that might be a deal breaker for their burgeoning romance.
Mallory and Ben's relationship slowly transforms from friends to lovers. Ben is very open about his personal life and his primary concern is for Amber, and what impact a romance with Mallory will have on her. Mallory and Ben both agree to always be honest with each other, but Mallory is a very private person and revealing her past takes time and patience. Once all of their issues are finally out in the open, the progression of their relationship is fairly smooth with only a few bumps along the way. However a major crisis brings all of their hidden fears to the surface and a misunderstanding threatens their future.
Mallory and Ben's relationship is very sweet but there is also an incredible amount of chemistry between them. They take their time getting to know each other and their honesty about their hopes and fears is very refreshing. The care that Ben takes when to introducing Amber to Mallory reinforces all of the things that make him such a warm and caring man. Mallory and Amber connect through shared interests and they soon form a close bond.
The conflict between Mallory and Ben comes as a shock given how supportive Ben has been. A major misunderstanding tears them apart and Mallory's close friends, Jules, Dani and Beth quickly close ranks around her. While their hearts are in the right place, this over protectiveness creates even more tension between Mallory and Ben but help for the estranged couple arrives from a very surprising source and Ben pulls out all the stops to win her back.
The Bottom Line has an endearing storyline and a lovely cast of charming characters. All of the relationships and issues are realistically depicted and the plot is refreshingly unique. An enjoyable introduction to Sandy James' The Ladies Who Lunch series that is sure to be enjoyed by fans of contemporary romances.
September 10, 2016
The Bottom Line is the first book I’ve read by Sandy James, and it certainly won’t be my last. This is a solid romance with a heroine recovering from breast cancer. Mallory is a teacher whose rat bastard of a husband left her after he found out she was diagnosed with cancer. She is in remission after surgery, but still recovering from both the emotional and physical side effects of this horrible disease. She is a woman we can all admire because of her strength, and you feel for her situation right from the start. She has a great support with three of her fellow teachers, who call themselves, The Ladies Who Lunch.
Mallory’s house is falling apart around her. Since her rat bastard ex-husband was in charge of the renovations, he did a shoddy job. Mallory hires a contractor named Ben Carpenter (Carpenter the carpenter- haha). Ben has some personal issues like Mallory. His witch of an ex-wife treats their 13 year old daughter like crap and constantly threatens and verbally attacks Ben just because she is a witch. Ben is a great father and all around good guy. From the moment you meet him, you know he is exactly what Mallory needs.
Mallory is invited to a singles mixer at her friend’s church, and sees Ben. She and Ben dance and then the sparks fly. Soon the carpenter and the teacher are more than just in a professional relationship. Ben and Mallory start dating, and Ben falls for Mallory hard, but she’s holding a piece of herself back. He’s afraid Ben will end up dumping her like her ex-husband. When he figures out what Mallory is hiding, he wants to be supportive but he’s not sure he can give her what she needs because of his own failure as a husband.
Mallory and Ben are a couple I really enjoyed reading about. Their attraction is along the lines of a meet cute, which transform into hot and steamy. Ben sometimes acts like a typical guy, especially when he questions how involved he should get with Mallory, and you want to smack him, but when he realizes his mistakes with Mallory, he’s right there to admit he was wrong and tries fixing things. Ben’s relationship with his daughter was lovely, but his ex-wife is a typical one-dimensional villain found in these types of stories.
The Bottom Life should appeal to fans of contemporary romance that also has a slight Chick-Lit feel. Do yourself a favor and check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
More at Booklikes: http://katiebabs.booklikes.com/post/8...
Mallory’s house is falling apart around her. Since her rat bastard ex-husband was in charge of the renovations, he did a shoddy job. Mallory hires a contractor named Ben Carpenter (Carpenter the carpenter- haha). Ben has some personal issues like Mallory. His witch of an ex-wife treats their 13 year old daughter like crap and constantly threatens and verbally attacks Ben just because she is a witch. Ben is a great father and all around good guy. From the moment you meet him, you know he is exactly what Mallory needs.
Mallory is invited to a singles mixer at her friend’s church, and sees Ben. She and Ben dance and then the sparks fly. Soon the carpenter and the teacher are more than just in a professional relationship. Ben and Mallory start dating, and Ben falls for Mallory hard, but she’s holding a piece of herself back. He’s afraid Ben will end up dumping her like her ex-husband. When he figures out what Mallory is hiding, he wants to be supportive but he’s not sure he can give her what she needs because of his own failure as a husband.
Mallory and Ben are a couple I really enjoyed reading about. Their attraction is along the lines of a meet cute, which transform into hot and steamy. Ben sometimes acts like a typical guy, especially when he questions how involved he should get with Mallory, and you want to smack him, but when he realizes his mistakes with Mallory, he’s right there to admit he was wrong and tries fixing things. Ben’s relationship with his daughter was lovely, but his ex-wife is a typical one-dimensional villain found in these types of stories.
The Bottom Life should appeal to fans of contemporary romance that also has a slight Chick-Lit feel. Do yourself a favor and check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
More at Booklikes: http://katiebabs.booklikes.com/post/8...
July 12, 2014
I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads. Thanks to the author and to Goodreads for this opportunity. I LOVED this book. I found myself sneaking at work trying to finish it. The uncorrected manuscript I received was 462 pages of varying emotions. At some points I couldn't stop grinning like a goon, other times I had to wipe tears, and sometimes I chuckled out loud and squirmed in my seat with eagerness. There were enough steamy and descriptive scenes when the love-making-magic got started. 30-something year old Mallory is a school teacher and part of a close knit group of girls (four total) who also teach; they get together at lunch on school days and vent about life. Mallory has had a tough past year that many people don't know about: A year ago she was diagnosed with breast cancer. During this difficult and emotional time, her husband left her when she needed him most. She's battled the cancer, gone through the mastectomy, the chemo and all the emotions and loss that comes with it. After such a trying year with no support from the man she thought loved her, she is ready for some changes. Mallory wants her house remodeled and Ben Carpenter comes highly recommended from a trusted source. Ben has gone through some trauma himself and has to share his daughter with his now ex-wife who is just a mess and a half herself. Sparks start flying as they spend more and more time with each other. Mallory is afraid to fall for another man after her husband shattered her trust and she feels the need to "test" Ben to see if he's the kind that sticks around, or runs when he sees trouble. Ben is scared to fall in love with Mallory and doesn't want his daughter or himself hurt, especially if the dreaded cancer comes back. Just when you think the book is about to be summed up, Mallory finds a lump somewhere on her body and this becomes a true test for both her and Ben. This book is a slow and easy roller coaster of emotions about friends, lovers, illnesses, and life in general. This book happens to touch me in a special spot because my mother in law is a teacher and is going through her own breast cancer battle right now, exactly like Mallory (minus the cowardly husband thing). I'm going to pass the book to her because it's encouraging and a feel-good uplifting book.
November 21, 2014
I think this is the first time that I have read a romance novel where the main character is a cancer survivor and is dealing with breast reconstruction. It was certainly a nice change from the normal almost-perfect heroines.
Mallory's past year has been a real struggle. Her husband left her as soon as she found out she had cancer. Her three best friends were the ones who were there for her during her terrible low times. Now that she is feeling better and recovering from the fog of illness, she is ready to move forward, and part of this process includes renovating the home where she lived with her husband to make it her own. But Ben, the sexy contractor who shows up to work on her house, may just help her in more ways than she imagined.
The characters in this book are amazing. Mallory is a strong, mostly independent cancer survivor. She certainly needs her three best friends, but she thinks she doesn't need anyone else and has kept her cancer a secret from others. However, on the inside, she is vulnerable and still reeling from her ex-husband's rejection at a time when she needed him the most. Ben is hard-working and caring. I think the most sexy thing about him, however, is his true determination to do whatever it takes to take care of his daughter, Amber. Ben makes a bad decision regarding Mallory, which almost made me stop liking him, but it all came down to him being concerned for Amber. Out of Mallory's three best friends, the one we see the most is Juliana. I think Juliana is actually my favorite character in this book. She is sassy and strong-willed on the outside but sensitive on the inside. Reading about Juliana made me want to read the next book in the series just to get to know her more.
The love story in this book was certainly a new one for me. The characters were falling in love while dealing with the issues and pain of breast reconstruction and the fear of relapse. I think it was a great idea to bring this struggle in as the central plot, and Ms. James handled it beautifully. I would recommend this book and this series to anyone who enjoys contemporary romance.
A copy was provided for an honest review.
Mallory's past year has been a real struggle. Her husband left her as soon as she found out she had cancer. Her three best friends were the ones who were there for her during her terrible low times. Now that she is feeling better and recovering from the fog of illness, she is ready to move forward, and part of this process includes renovating the home where she lived with her husband to make it her own. But Ben, the sexy contractor who shows up to work on her house, may just help her in more ways than she imagined.
The characters in this book are amazing. Mallory is a strong, mostly independent cancer survivor. She certainly needs her three best friends, but she thinks she doesn't need anyone else and has kept her cancer a secret from others. However, on the inside, she is vulnerable and still reeling from her ex-husband's rejection at a time when she needed him the most. Ben is hard-working and caring. I think the most sexy thing about him, however, is his true determination to do whatever it takes to take care of his daughter, Amber. Ben makes a bad decision regarding Mallory, which almost made me stop liking him, but it all came down to him being concerned for Amber. Out of Mallory's three best friends, the one we see the most is Juliana. I think Juliana is actually my favorite character in this book. She is sassy and strong-willed on the outside but sensitive on the inside. Reading about Juliana made me want to read the next book in the series just to get to know her more.
The love story in this book was certainly a new one for me. The characters were falling in love while dealing with the issues and pain of breast reconstruction and the fear of relapse. I think it was a great idea to bring this struggle in as the central plot, and Ms. James handled it beautifully. I would recommend this book and this series to anyone who enjoys contemporary romance.
A copy was provided for an honest review.
February 21, 2015
I was introduced to Sandy James with her paranormal romance Alliance of the Amazon Series. This was followed up by her historical western romance series, Safe Haven. Needless to say when I saw a contemporary romance, I just had to get it. I truly believe that Sandy James can do romance in any style.
The Ladies that Lunch are a group of 4 women teachers, 2 in their 30's and 2 in their 20's, who eat lunch together every day and have for several years. The women have become not only best friends, but a support network for one another. This is Mallory's story.
Mallory Hamilton has survived a tough year. First she was diagnosed with breast cancer, and if that wasn't bad enough, her husband left when the going got tough. She is currently cancer free and fighting hard to get her life back in order, starting with her house. Ex-hubby wasn't known for his follow through and has left the house in a state of disarray after years of DIY starts and stops. When a fellow teacher recommends Ben Carpenter as a contractor she can trust, Mallory meets with him to find out what will need to be done.
Ben Carpenter is a single father, struggling in a depressed economy to not only raise his tween-age daughter, but deal with the shenanigans of his crazy ex-wife. Working for Mallory after hours is the perfect way to supplement his income. The attraction between the two of them was instant, yet sweet.
I have said it before and I will say it again, I don't normally read books that I know will make me cry. However, with this book, watching Mallory fight to get her life back, and her Ladies who have her back, is such a beautiful thing it brings tears to my eyes. There is a scene where the Ladies show there love and support of Mallory, that just thinking about, brings a tear to my eye, even days later. This is such a book of hope and courage, you feel better just reading it. I loved this book, 5 stars all the way.
The Ladies that Lunch are a group of 4 women teachers, 2 in their 30's and 2 in their 20's, who eat lunch together every day and have for several years. The women have become not only best friends, but a support network for one another. This is Mallory's story.
Mallory Hamilton has survived a tough year. First she was diagnosed with breast cancer, and if that wasn't bad enough, her husband left when the going got tough. She is currently cancer free and fighting hard to get her life back in order, starting with her house. Ex-hubby wasn't known for his follow through and has left the house in a state of disarray after years of DIY starts and stops. When a fellow teacher recommends Ben Carpenter as a contractor she can trust, Mallory meets with him to find out what will need to be done.
Ben Carpenter is a single father, struggling in a depressed economy to not only raise his tween-age daughter, but deal with the shenanigans of his crazy ex-wife. Working for Mallory after hours is the perfect way to supplement his income. The attraction between the two of them was instant, yet sweet.
I have said it before and I will say it again, I don't normally read books that I know will make me cry. However, with this book, watching Mallory fight to get her life back, and her Ladies who have her back, is such a beautiful thing it brings tears to my eyes. There is a scene where the Ladies show there love and support of Mallory, that just thinking about, brings a tear to my eye, even days later. This is such a book of hope and courage, you feel better just reading it. I loved this book, 5 stars all the way.
April 16, 2014
It was nice to know from almost the very beginning Ben's story. It made interpreting his actions and understanding them a little easier. But we were still left with a slight mystery for Mallory's history.We know her divorce was not exactly what she wanted but there's little clues that there might be something more. It doesn't take long to figure out that Mallory has been sick and why. But it added a bit of uncertainty with her actions and some of her thoughts. Then there was the banter that the two characters exchanged. It was amusing and engaging. I wanted to continue reading just to see what the two would say to each other.
There was also the fact that Sandy James gives readers a perspective that most people don't get to see. That of a teacher. Students don't often know exactly what their teachers do or even really want to think of their life outside of school - or at least this student has. But Sandy James gives us an insight into the life of a teacher. It was interesting and new to me.
There were many different battles that took place throughout the book and each gave a realistic perception. The reader gets to find out how difficult dating and having a daughter can be, the fear and doubt that a single parent can experience when dating. Then the readers also get to see the fear that women who have had cancer or who have had a family member or friend experience cancer go through over something that many women would overlook. Not to mention the day-to-day fear that there would be a remission. It was a refreshing perspective, one that I enjoyed seeing.
The Bottom Line was a touching, thoughtful, and amusing book to read. I enjoyed it and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys romance with difficulties thrown in. It gives readers new perspectives on life and can be an eye-opener for some. The Bottom Line is going to be released on May 6th.
Find this review and many others at Reading Shy With Aly
There was also the fact that Sandy James gives readers a perspective that most people don't get to see. That of a teacher. Students don't often know exactly what their teachers do or even really want to think of their life outside of school - or at least this student has. But Sandy James gives us an insight into the life of a teacher. It was interesting and new to me.
There were many different battles that took place throughout the book and each gave a realistic perception. The reader gets to find out how difficult dating and having a daughter can be, the fear and doubt that a single parent can experience when dating. Then the readers also get to see the fear that women who have had cancer or who have had a family member or friend experience cancer go through over something that many women would overlook. Not to mention the day-to-day fear that there would be a remission. It was a refreshing perspective, one that I enjoyed seeing.
The Bottom Line was a touching, thoughtful, and amusing book to read. I enjoyed it and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys romance with difficulties thrown in. It gives readers new perspectives on life and can be an eye-opener for some. The Bottom Line is going to be released on May 6th.
Find this review and many others at Reading Shy With Aly
August 31, 2015
Reviewed by JoAnne
Book provided by NetGalley
Originally posted at Romancing the Book
This was a feel good romance even if there were some not so happy goings on with ex-spouses, illness and fear. Mallory and Ben had chemistry from the moment they met when he went to her house to give her an estimate for some remodeling she wanted done. Even though they didn’t let on to the other they both felt sparks although neither was in a place to do anything about it because of the messes their lives were in but it sure was fun to watch the fire flame.
Mallory had three good friends – the ladies she lunched with – but they didn’t always feel her happiness or seem to want her happy where it concerned Ben. There were family, friends, coworkers, happiness, sorrow, fear, tears, laughter, romance and love. Ben’s daughter, Amber, was a delight and wise beyond her years. There was a happily ever after and nice closure. It’s great that this is only book one in the series and I’ll get to meet up with Mallory, Ben, Dani, Jules and Beth in future books even if Jules could be abrasive at times. All in all a book that kept my interest from the first page to the last so much so that I didn’t want to put it down and stayed up later than I should reading it.
I have read other books by James, who has become a favorite author, and jumped at the chance to review this book when she asked me if I would like to do so. I have read two of her series – one contemporary and the other fantasy as well as one other stand alone book. I look forward to reading many more of her books in the future.
Book provided by NetGalley
Originally posted at Romancing the Book
This was a feel good romance even if there were some not so happy goings on with ex-spouses, illness and fear. Mallory and Ben had chemistry from the moment they met when he went to her house to give her an estimate for some remodeling she wanted done. Even though they didn’t let on to the other they both felt sparks although neither was in a place to do anything about it because of the messes their lives were in but it sure was fun to watch the fire flame.
Mallory had three good friends – the ladies she lunched with – but they didn’t always feel her happiness or seem to want her happy where it concerned Ben. There were family, friends, coworkers, happiness, sorrow, fear, tears, laughter, romance and love. Ben’s daughter, Amber, was a delight and wise beyond her years. There was a happily ever after and nice closure. It’s great that this is only book one in the series and I’ll get to meet up with Mallory, Ben, Dani, Jules and Beth in future books even if Jules could be abrasive at times. All in all a book that kept my interest from the first page to the last so much so that I didn’t want to put it down and stayed up later than I should reading it.
I have read other books by James, who has become a favorite author, and jumped at the chance to review this book when she asked me if I would like to do so. I have read two of her series – one contemporary and the other fantasy as well as one other stand alone book. I look forward to reading many more of her books in the future.
June 5, 2014
*** 3.5 stars! ***
Review Posted on Harlequin Junkies.com
The Bottom Line by Sandy James: Traditional wedding vows can be paraphrased as follows: “Do you promise to be true in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love and honor all the days of your life?” When, unfortunately, one of the partners in the marriage doesn’t honor those vows, the financial and psychological fallout can be immense. And that’s where The Bottom Line starts. Mallory Hamilton is ready to start life anew. A dedicated high school teacher, Mallory is recently divorced and her home is a “DIY” disaster. Her distant husband Jay left her after a personal health crisis, and her trust in the reliability of men is at an all-time low. She hires the very hunky but kindly Ben Carpenter to do the repairs on her house. Ben is also damaged from divorce, and is the custodial parent of a 13-year-old daughter, Amber.
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Review Posted on Harlequin Junkies.com
The Bottom Line by Sandy James: Traditional wedding vows can be paraphrased as follows: “Do you promise to be true in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love and honor all the days of your life?” When, unfortunately, one of the partners in the marriage doesn’t honor those vows, the financial and psychological fallout can be immense. And that’s where The Bottom Line starts. Mallory Hamilton is ready to start life anew. A dedicated high school teacher, Mallory is recently divorced and her home is a “DIY” disaster. Her distant husband Jay left her after a personal health crisis, and her trust in the reliability of men is at an all-time low. She hires the very hunky but kindly Ben Carpenter to do the repairs on her house. Ben is also damaged from divorce, and is the custodial parent of a 13-year-old daughter, Amber.
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May 29, 2014
The Bottom Line
Mallory is a High School teacher that has had a long hard year. Her husband leaves she has been ill and now she needs to start over with her life. Her husband left lots of projects to finish in the home when he left and now she wants them done. She asks a friend if they might know a contractor that could do the repairs. He has her call Ben.
Ben goes to give an estimate on some repairs that need to be done to Mallory. He really needs the job as he has a daughter to take care of. When he starts to work on the repairs at Mallory’s the build a friendship that he wants to see if it can be more. Although he is not sure he is ready for that as is ex-wife was a not the best.
As they the friendship grows Ben sees the fear and pain that Mallory is hiding. Will she let him in? Can he win her heart?
I loved the emotions in this book as they are real in some lives. This may be because I know what it is like to survive illness and to try to live one’s life. This is a very moving story on what it is like to move on from pain and let life take you where it wants.
I look forward to more in this series.
Mallory is a High School teacher that has had a long hard year. Her husband leaves she has been ill and now she needs to start over with her life. Her husband left lots of projects to finish in the home when he left and now she wants them done. She asks a friend if they might know a contractor that could do the repairs. He has her call Ben.
Ben goes to give an estimate on some repairs that need to be done to Mallory. He really needs the job as he has a daughter to take care of. When he starts to work on the repairs at Mallory’s the build a friendship that he wants to see if it can be more. Although he is not sure he is ready for that as is ex-wife was a not the best.
As they the friendship grows Ben sees the fear and pain that Mallory is hiding. Will she let him in? Can he win her heart?
I loved the emotions in this book as they are real in some lives. This may be because I know what it is like to survive illness and to try to live one’s life. This is a very moving story on what it is like to move on from pain and let life take you where it wants.
I look forward to more in this series.
October 17, 2014
Mallory and Ben have both been burned by love in the past. When he becomes her contractor for some repairs around the house, will they both be able to let their pasts stay in the past and give each other a future? This was an adorable book with a great plot. I loved the ladies who lunch, and I can't wait for more stories about the other ladies. I loved the back stories of both Mallory and Ben, it gave the book a lot of character and just the right amount of tension. The bottom line is that The Bottom Line is a cute and charming read. I can't wait for more!
Thank you to the author and publisher for a copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the author and publisher for a copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 12, 2014
What a story! Everything is in it. There is laughter, pain, uncertainty, solidarity, love, acceptance and so much more. Cancer is a very real part of our world. The author wisely and realistically deals with this and I could see the story unfold as Mallory grappled with cancer and the fragmented pieces of her life. Her ride or die girls were a group that any of us would long to have on our side. I loved that the right guy got the right girl. While the relationship with Theresa and Amber broke my heart, the healing balm that Mallory provided for Amber made me applaud. Great story.
May 12, 2014
Mallory Hamilton's husband bailed on her within days of her breast cancer diagnosis. She meets Ben Carpenter, a carpenter, who was married to the Bitch from hell. The only good thing about that was his 13 yr old, Amber, who lives with him.
Ms James can write! Her storyline about a high school teacher and dealing with breast cancer was spot on about both situations.
I'm anxiously awaiting the next one in this series.
Ms James can write! Her storyline about a high school teacher and dealing with breast cancer was spot on about both situations.
I'm anxiously awaiting the next one in this series.
November 15, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. While it wraps its way around the topic of breast cancer, it also touches on other things like child care and teacher rolls in our kids lives. It was a fast moving comtempory romance filled with everyday life issues. I look forward to more of her books. This book was given to me in return for a honest review. Because of sexual content, must be 18 to read.
May 9, 2014
Wonderful book
There were so many good parts in this book. I love how the friends are there to support. The length he goes to prove his love for her is absolutely amazing. I enjoy reading all of Sandy James books, each one is so different and yet I get hooked right from the beginning.
There were so many good parts in this book. I love how the friends are there to support. The length he goes to prove his love for her is absolutely amazing. I enjoy reading all of Sandy James books, each one is so different and yet I get hooked right from the beginning.
July 9, 2014
Read my review on Romancing-the-Book.com by clicking on the link below:
http://romancing-the-book.com/2014/06...
http://romancing-the-book.com/2014/06...
June 30, 2014
This is an excellent book. Very well written.
April 28, 2015
I fell in love with this story and the couple. Review to come later
January 17, 2021
This book wasn't what I expected. Mallory Hamilton is getting her life back on track after a divorce and treatment for breast cancer. She hires Ben Carpenter to fix all the DIY projects her ex messed up. Ben is also divorced and has a teenage daughter. Neither is looking for a new relationship, but they are drawn to each other and one thing leads to another. I found the sexy scenes just awkward, and not sexy at all. I also never really warmed up to Mallory -she was pretty closed off and not particularly likeable. I did like Ben and his kid, but he was a bit too passive.
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